Merchandising Manager, WRTW

Founded in 1913 in Italy, the Prada Group was built on a tradition of excellence and with a vision of innovation. The Group, a world leader in the luxury sector, operates in more than 45 countries with the PRADA, Miu Miu, Church’s and Car Shoe brands, and has employees of over one hundred nationalities. The acquisition of Pasticceria Marchesi 1824 has marked the Group’s entry into the food sector, applying the same high-quality criteria. Very proactive also in the art field, the Prada Group strengthens its presence through contemporary art projects in constant evolution.

JOB PURPOSE

Responsible for supporting the Women's RTW team in managing the business strategy for the Americas boutiques. Main responsibilities include reporting recaps, developing and executing product assortment strategies, product tools creation, competitive market analysis, distribution & replenishment of seasonal and permanent product.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Merchandising Functions:

• Review and analyze weekly Excel sales reports to ensure the business is tracking to targets
• Prepare weekly business recaps for upper management
• Assist in weekly stock rebalancing to drive sales and maximize sell-thru
• Participate in 6 buying sessions in Milan/Virtually
• Create premarket analysis, including seasonal hindsight to identify successes and opportunities from the previous season for the region
• Develop by store/size seasonal assortments for +50 boutiques in accordance with company vision and strategy and market specificities
• Executes seasonal/seasonal restocking of products for the boutiques
• Communicate and partner closely with retail teams to manage daily product inquiries
• Collaborate with Visual Merchandising to ensure seasonal product investments are focal while still within the visual guidelines in accordance with company image standards
• Assist in markdown preparation: suggest styles to markdown and consolidate products to high-performing markdown boutiques
• Works cross-functionally with logistics to track shipments and deliveries

Market and product analysis

• Analyzes the particularities of the market in terms of trends, positioning of competitors, and characteristics of the clientele
• Constant presence in the boutiques to check product sales trends, the presence of a correct product assortment, and appropriate product exposure, as well as a generally positive image of the shop
• Works closely with the Store Management teams to understand the needs of the business
• Gather and prepare reports for product development proposals or competitor analysis

Product training

• Introduces the collections to shop personnel on a seasonal basis, supplying detailed instructions on sales strategies and translating the excitement and vision of the company to all levels of personnel within stores
• Leads & provides shop sales personnel with product training, provides general WRTW introductory training to new hires
• Prepares presentations for store trainings and product

Selling Events

• Collaborate with the Retail Operations team to identify WRTW selling event opportunities and set sales targets
• Monitor merchandise deliveries pre/post event; follow through on all client orders
• Act as WRTW ambassador to stores and retail partners during events. Provide product knowledge and enforce brand ideals and aesthetics.
• Support client appointments during events and partake in the overall client selling ceremony

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in Merchandising
• Experience in the Luxury industry preferred, ideally WRTW
• Strong organizational skills, time management skills, multi-tasking, and prioritizing capabilities.
• Attention to detail, and strong written and oral communication skills. Must be comfortable with public speaking and presenting
• Advanced in Microsoft Office Excel and PowerPoint
• Frequent domestic and international travel required
• Positive attitude and entrepreneurial spirit are a must. Must be team-oriented.

Joining our Company means working in a creative, international environment with teams driven by curiosity and a commitment to excellence. The engine of our success is the importance and value we place on our people's talent and passion, which lead to their professional growth.

Prada Group promotes an inclusive work environment, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates, regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, or other personal characteristics. We believe that diversity is a value and we are committed to build a fair and respectful workplace for all.

This position will pay an annual salary of $100,000- $110,000 and may be eligible for bonuses and other incentive opportunities. The rate of pay offered may vary based on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.